For fans of Pride and Prejudice who crave a modern take on the lovers-to-enemies trope, the BBC and Netflix drama Normal People offers a heartbreaking 21st-century romance. Adapted from Sally Rooney's best-selling novel, the series has captivated audiences with its award-winning performances and emotionally devastating love affair.
Record-Breaking Success on BBC iPlayer
When Normal People premiered in 2020, it became BBC Three's most successful week on iPlayer, receiving over 16.2 million programme requests. The show has since become a cultural touchstone, yet many TV fans have still not watched it. The 12-episode series follows Irish teenagers Marianne Sheridan (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Connell Waldron (Paul Mescal) from secondary school through university, exploring their tumultuous relationship as it evolves amid shifting friendships and childhood traumas.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Reactions
One fan on Rotten Tomatoes described the series as "a quietly devastating and profoundly moving exploration of first love and human connection," praising the "remarkable performances" of Mescal and Edgar-Jones for capturing "subtle chemistry, vulnerability, and emotional depth." Another reviewer called it "sublime. One of the best of its kind I've ever seen," adding that the leads are "perfect in every way."
The show's realistic and intimate sex scenes, along with the tender dialogue between the characters, have resonated deeply with viewers. The chemistry between the two actors has been credited with propelling the series and launching their careers. Edgar-Jones and Mescal have since become household names, with Mescal earning an Oscar nomination for his role in Aftersun.
A Modern Take on Classic Romance
Like classic period dramas, Marianne and Connell's relationship begins in secret. As they date other people and their lives take shape, their connection grows increasingly complicated. They struggle to remain friends, yet being together seems impossible. One fan summed it up: "Real, raw and vulnerable. This highly emotional show had me hooked from the beginning."
Writer Sally Rooney collaborated with Alice Birch and Mark O'Rowe to adapt the novel for television, with direction by Lenny Abrahamson and Hettie Macdonald. The series is available to stream on BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and Disney+. Viewers are advised to bring tissues, as the show has left many in tears.
